RIT Takes a Sunday Drive

ROCHESTER, NY—Stating that the “best learning institution deserves the best resources,” Heidelberg Chairman Bernhard Schreier officially handed over the reins of a $7 million to $10 million Sunday 2000 web press to the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) at an April 25th formal dedication of the school’s new Heidelberg Web Press Lab.

The gapless Sunday 2000 consummates a partnership of the vendor and learning institution, initially announced during PRINT 01 in Chicago. Another 17 manufacturers donated accessories, consumables and various trimmings for the Sunday 2000.

Schreier was joined at the dedication by fellow Heidelberg executives Werner Albrecht, president of Heidelberg Web Systems; Niels Winther, president of Heidelberg USA; and Wolfgang Pfizenmaier. University President Albert J. Simone and Bruce James, who chairs the school’s board of trustees, praised Heidelberg for supporting the school’s academic endeavors.

“This partnership is a great example of how industry and academia can work together for the greater good,” Simone said.

“We want to lead technology, not keep up with it,” James added. “This dedication celebrates our common goal of being printing leaders of the 21st century.”

Added Albrecht: “We promise to help make RIT the best of its kind in the world.”

Earlier in the day, during a luncheon celebrating the occasion, Simone repaid Schreier for the kindness he displayed during PRINT 01 in pledging the press by presenting him with an RIT jacket. At the Chicago show, Schreier gave Simone a Heidelberg jacket, sealing the newly forged partnership.

“I believe Heidelberg and RIT are natural partners,” Schreier said. “And I believe the press lab is the most important aspect of our relationship.